Former Cliftonville striker Boyce has been rewarded by being called into Worthington's squad for the first time - they face Scotland in the Carling Nations Cup next week.

"It is an ideal opportunity to bring Liam in. We can have a real good look at him," Worthington told BBC Northern Ireland.

"I have been fortunate to have worked him for the past three years in the Milk Cup and I knew about him at Cliftonville. I know his strengths and weaknesses.

"The move to full-time football has been good for him. He has trimmed down and become a lot leaner. Working on a daily basis has helped him physically and mentally.

"Liam has scored a few goals as well. I have spoken to him and he is really enjoying himself. That is a big thing. He has moved to a different culture and taken on a foreign language. There are a lot of challenges for Liam and you have to give him credit."